ISLAMABAD: Losing weight is physically and psychologically taxing. In order to successfully drop pounds, you have to be disciplined, creative, and determined, but achieving your weight loss goals makes the entire struggle worthwhile. Though some diets designed to accelerate weight loss are often mired in strict rules, maintaining a healthy weight involves switching up tactics. Instead of following hard-set eating laws, it’s better to set up flexible diet guidelines and adaptable eating plans. There are a handful of general strategies that have been proven to help maintain weight. A healthy diet should be founded in vegetables and plants, because they have a more complex nutritional profile than simple carbohydrates, and are rich in satiating fiber, keeping you fuller longer. Another tip to remember is that “junk food” doesn’t need to be completely avoided – however, the catch is that you need to make it yourself. Most recipes for homemade hamburgers, pizzas, French fries, or mashed potatoes will have less salt and fewer empty calories than what’s available at a fast-food restaurant or convenience store. Also, don’t be afraid to snack. As long as you’re munching on something low in calories and rich in fiber, a few midday munchies can actually help you side-step a complete diet breakdown. Realistic food guidelines are the key to staying at your ideal weight, and there are a few select foods that can help make the transition from losing to maintaining the loss easier. These nine foods will keep you full and satisfied, and help you keep off the weight off that you worked so hard to lose.